Goro Yamaguchi lived from February 26, 1933  to January 3, 1999.  He was a Japanese shakuhachi (vertical bamboo flute) player known for his impeccable technique and phrasing in both solo and ensemble performances.  World famous he headed the Chikumeisha shakuhachi guild in Japan and was appointed artist in residence at Wesleyan University in Middletown, Connecticut from 1967 through 1968.  In 1992, Yamaguchi was designated as a National Living Treasure by the Japanese government.

A Bell Ringing In the Empty Sky  was the first recording in the United States.   You may listen to Koku-Reibo here: